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Friday, 13 March 2015

The Royals Attend Service of Commemoration at St Paul's Cathedral

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge joined members of the Royal family for a service of commemoration to mark the end of combat operations in Afghanistan at St Paul's Cathedral, London.

Other royals in attendance included Her Majesty The Queen, The Duke of Edinburgh, The Prince of Wales, The Duchess of Cornwall, The Duke of York, The Earl and Countess of Wessex, The Duke of Gloucester, and of course Prince Harry who served who served two tours during the conflict.

Some 2,000 people gathered at the cathedral this morning including hundreds of veterans and families who lost loved ones during the conflict. Political leaders whose decisions led to Britain's involvement in Afghanistan following the 9/11 attacks, including former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, were present.

A great shot of the couple on the steps of the cathedral.

St Paul's Cathedral shared this photo of The Cambridges arriving.

The tribute honoured the 453 Service men and women who lost their lives during the campaign. During the service, The Archbishop of Canterbury blessed a cross made of shell casings that adorned a memorial wall in Camp Bastion, ahead of forming part of a new Bastion Memorial Wall at the National Memorial Arboretum, to be dedicated at a special ceremony in June.

David Murray, chief executive of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity spoke to The Telegraph about the service:

'It is an opportunity to recognise the courage and sacrifice of the tens of thousands of brave men and women who served in Afghanistan and to honour the 453 servicemen and women who lost their lives fighting for our country.

As Afghanistan makes the transfer from the front pages to the history books, let us not forget that our Forces have been doing their duty on our behalf, to keep us safe. They have had our backs, now is the time for us to have theirs.

Almost 150,000 UK personnel served in the Afghanistan conflict, and 453 British men and women died in the fight against the Taliban insurgency.'

The service was led by the Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, with the address given by The Archbishop of Canterbury. Prayers will be said by members of the Armed Forces, veterans and families.

St Paul's Cathedral is one of the most famous and most recognisable sights of London, with its dome, framed by the spires of Wren's City churches, dominating the skyline for 300 years. At 365 feet (111 m) high, it was the tallest building in London from 1710 to 1962, and its dome is also among the highest in the world. In terms of area, St Paul's is the second largest church building in the United Kingdom after Liverpool Cathedral.

St Paul's Cathedral

A photo of the choir rehearsing for the service yesterday.

St Paul's Cathedral Facebook Page

The step liners in place.

St Paul's Cathedral Facebook Page

The order of service can be viewed on the cathedral's official website. Below we see a snippet from The Bidding Prayer led by The Very Reverend Dr David Ison.

'We commemorate with sorrow and regret those who have died in these operations, and pray for their families and friends and for all who mourn their loss. May they rest in peace and rise in glory.

We remember those who have been injured in body, mind or spirit and we pray for their continued well-being and for those who especially support them. And we pray for the nation of Afghanistan, for its people and its leaders, remembering the fear

and death and loss that they too have known, and the danger which people in that great country continue to face today. May they share in the many riches which earth affords and contribute actively to the good of the international community.'

For her first military engagement in 2011, Kate honoured Irish Guards who served in Afghanistan. The Duchess chose a striking military style Alexander McQueen ensemble for the event.

Senior members of the royal family leaving the service led by the Queen.

We saw an unusual and touching sight as Prince Philip helped the Queen descend the steps of the cathedral. Several onlookers noted Her Majesty looked quite tired today.

William and Kate with The Earl and Countess of Wessex and The Duke of York.

Following the service, personnel who served in Afghanistan paraded from St Paul’s Cathedral through the City of London to Guildhall.

There was a spectacular flypast too. Aircraft from the campaign, including Chinook, Apache and Sea King helicopters, as well as Hercules transport planes and Tornado attack jets, roared over the parade in their own salute.

PA

William, Kate and Harry looked up.

PA

After the parade, members of the Royal family will attend receptions at Guildhall, the Honourable Artillery Company and Wellington Barracks for those who attended the service and took part in the parade. Prince William is expected to attend one of these receptions; Kate isn't pencilled in to join him.

I immediately recognised Kate's chic coat as a piece by Beulah London. The navy Chiara trapeze coat is described as "extremely flattering" It features a nipped in waist with soft folds at the hem. It was the perfect choice for the nature of the engagement and looked incredibly elegant on Kate.

Beulah London

The Chiara is available in 100% wool for £695 for and acetate and viscose for £395.

Beulah London

Beulah London confirmed they did not design the garment Kate wore underneath.

Kate debuted a new structured hat with ribbon detail.

Whilst watching the service, I noticed Kate adjusting the hat quite a lot. This is evident in several photos from this morning too. Luckily her prince was on hand to assist her down the steps :)

Following endless searching the team at My Small Obsessions finally identified the stones as pieces by G Collins & Sons, a jewellery favoured by The Countess of Wessex. The stones come from Tanzania in Africa, We know the Duke and Duchess are both fond of Africa. Below we see the Tanzanite and Diamond Pendant at G Collins & Sons. The pear shaped pendant are available for £8,400. Kate's exact earrings are not available at this time.

G Collins & Sons

It was an outstanding look for the Duchess; regal, sophisticated and understated - exactly what the occasion called for. The Beulah London ensemble fitted perfectly and Kate's new jewels added a touch of sparkle to the navy look. What do you think?

218 comments:

I absolutely love today's look! It was something different, but it was just perfect. The coat looks so elegant and her hair looks great in this chignon. But the hat was certainly the best thing about the whole look ;) I wonder if the new jewelry was a gift from william... I hope we'll get to see more pictures of her entire body/outfit!

I agree. A+ all the way! What an elegant and sophisticated look and I am loving this hat with her chignon. And the jewelry looks like she is transitioning into royal jewels. Most of her jewelry is on the small side and this is more of a statement. A very beautiful statement! :))

This definitely jumps to the top of my best maternity looks on Kate! And surprisingly it wasn't even a maternity coat at all. She looks beautiful! Navy blue really is her color, looks great on her and obviously one of her favorite colors.

I loved the hair - it looked very elegant with that hat and the blue of the outfit seemed to match with Prince William´s blue uniform.On a sidenote: you mentioned that the "Princess of Wales" attended - instead the "Prince of Wales" - maybe a "Freudian mix-up" as we would call it in German, given the fact that the service was held at St. Paul´s Cathedral?... ;-)))))(That was just a joke, of course! - Thanks as always for this quick post with all the lovely photographs and all the information! Enjoyed it very much!)

You´re welcome, dear Charlotte! ;-))))))Thanks so much for including that lovely photo of the Duke of Edinburgh and HM!! It was so, so lovely! I just hope HM is just feeling a little bit of "spring tiredness" - she looks so nice with that lovely bouquet of spring flowers!

Very elegant look! I'm so glad that with this pregnancy she has kept her skirt lengths longer, it's much more flattering! Could the hat be bespoke Jane Taylor? There are some other hats that have the same basic shape.

Should also mention that that The Queen and Prince Phillip look grand. And that I love and adore St. Paul's - I got engaged at the top of that dome and it gives me so much happiness to see it with a bright sunny blue sky behind it today! Brings back lovely memories.

Oh yes! And what a wonder (and blessing!) that both of them are walking down those treacherous steps at St. Pauls--no handrails, mind you!--unaided by canes or human helpers--true, Prince Phillip is balancing the Queen for a moment, but she is not leaning on him--and she's wearing heels!!!

The Queen is known to have knee problems from all the riding she has done. She's had some surgery but not knee replacements. I think she just needed a bit of extra balance going down all those steps. She looked fine going up!

Lovely service and lovely outfit for Catherine.In the Cathedral could not make up my mind whether it was navy or black.As she walked in the procession, i began to wonder if she had the baby during the night and they had forgotten to tell us!Four different engagements this week, with four different hairstyles and outfits, each great on its own, but each totally suitable for the occasion.

I have been quite critical of Kate lately. I love her, but a year or two after the wedding she became quite disappointing. However, I can honestly say that this is the best she has looked and acted in a long time. No giddly smiles, awkward hand gestures or hair blowing everywhere. Appropriate hem length, style and colour for the occassion. It's also the first time she's really looked regal and sophisticated. There have been other occasions that were close, but this one tops them. I hope this is not a one off. Keep doing whatever you did today Kate!

The Queen looks fantastic as always. Thanks for the quick post as usual, Charlotte.

I agree with everything you said. I was a huge fan of hers before the engagement and after the wedding, but have also found myself disappointed with her over the past year or so. When I saw/read this post I was so impressed by her and saw a lot of the potential I don't think she has tapped into. I loved this outfit and the hat- it suits her so well. I hope she keeps it up!

Also, this is my first comment though I have been reading this blog for a few years now. Charlotte, you do an excellent job and I always enjoy reading what you write- a great balance of information and the fun stuff :). Keep it up!

Totally agree, blue. I think this has hit my top 5. Really lovely today. I actually LOVE the shoes in the photos Charlotte has posted. Too bad Kate's so far along she couldn't wear some like that. Yowza.

Bluhare the models heels were the first thing I noticed!! I love them and want them. Even if Kate were not pregnant she would not wear them sadly. She is pretty safe in her shoe selections. But I will gladly wear them! :)

I wish Kate would wear shoes like that. Not now, obviously, but once she's had the baby and is back at her fighting weight. She could wear something very conservative like this and really give it some oomph with similar ladylike sexy shoes. Kate could seriously rock the sexy librarian look. William might not mind that either. :)

Seriously Bluhare, we are on the same page! Sometimes her more safe/boring outfits would look killer with a change up in heels. Obviously you are right, it would be after the baby comes. But what a difference a pair of heels can make. Like the ones above, they are sexy but not so edgy that they cannot be worn to functions. I honestly think a small change in her shoes would change the look of her whole outfit. I guess we can dream :)

Maybe we should write and see if she needs our very new shoe consulting firm to help her with her footwear, Kat! We could take over handbags too . . . . bluKat Shoe, Bag and Gem Consulting! (That sounds much better than KatHare Shoe, Bag and Gem Consulting! :)

I think you guys are in the minority this time. Even this jaded jealous hater thinks she looks great. If I were to say anything it would be to say that she really should try a lip color that's a bit more bold. Not saying flaming red, but there are some lovely neutral browny pink shades that she could wear nicely.

The whole royal family looked wonderful--Kate, William, Sophie (!). The Queen did look tired, but her coat was gorgeous! And handsome Harry's hair was a bit too messy for my taste--I think he needs a new do (but I am old-fashioned!!).

Love the post but she really is from that in between era of real import and simply figurehead. It must be a hard transfer of "who she was" over the last 60 years. She really has seen a great change in the world and in her and her families import:( I suspect very very bittersweet memories and hopes for the current state and future of her family. Ali

WOW! I love these photos of the Royal Family together. Her Majesty and the Duke of Edimburgh are fantastic. William and Kate look so regal today. I love this photo of William assisting his wife down the stairs. By the way, Kate's outifit is amazing and suits her perfectly. And what beautiful jewels! Thank you so much Miss Charlotte for this lovely post.

I totally agree. The entire family looks wonderful. Wonder if Duchess Kate's new jewelry was a birthday gift. She looked perfect as always! And what a lovely color on Her Majesty; she is an amazing woman, leader, role model and family matriarch! Charlotte, I look for your posts first thing each morning; thanks for your great reporting.

Exquisite! Chic, sophisticated and respectful outfit. I am blown away! This is a new look for Kate and I love it! The chinon and the hat are so lovely together and navy blue suits her perfectly. Also nice to see her with her prince, the way he looks at her is so touching.

My only problem is with this look is, and she does this often, she wears earrings AND a necklace, where she should have chosen. Less is more! Luckily this time they are coordinated but still, this is to much. I am surprised I am the first one commenting on this, since in my style bible this is a no go and it really distracts of the beayty of Kate and the ensemble. Just a little to much going on.

I agree with you, she should have forgone the necklace and kept it at just earrings because they match her engagement ring anyway! Too matchy-matchy. Other than that she looked incredibly elegant today, a very good look for her :)

I disagree, less is simply....less. She could have added a few more rings, another bracelet or three, some rhinestone clips on the shoes and for the coat buttons...she's a princess of the United Kingdom, bring on the bling!

I agree with your necklace and earrings rule, Fabulousdaan, IF the earrings are dangly. However, Kate's were not, and I thought the matched set looked fabulous together! And the necklace was a classic pendant.

I don't mind matching pendants and earrings - the pendant is stunning - but would have preferred the earrings in a little different shape - more like a traditional parure and less like two extra pendants were made into earrings - as made have been the case.

Now this is what a duke and duchess should look like. Very regal outfit today, perfect hat, love the new jewels and hat. I think she has some better shoe choices then the ones she picked but these may simply be the most comfortable today. One of my favorite looks of all time. I hope she selects to wear this post pregnancy too!

{{{{SIGH}}}}} What a wonderful Kate-filled week we have had. Thank you Charlotte for your amazing posts as always. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire week and though that Kate just looked amazing at all of the events. She is glowing, healthy and just beautiful. I LOVED the entire outfit today. Her hair was gorgeous and her new jewelry - WOW!!! Very excited to see her a couple more times before she's on Maternity Leave. I think I am in the minority here - I'm predicting another boy for them. Don't know why - probably because everyone is pulling for a girl. :o) Thanks again Charlotte!

Actually, the queen has every combination of two grandchildren likely, boy-girl, boy-boy, girl-girl, girl-boy.

The same sex was more common in the previous generation except for the Kents but neither the queen or Margaret followed this it was boy-girl-boy-boy and boy-girl. (Anne and Sarah.) Likewise, the Kents and Gloucesters of the queen's generation each had a child of the opposite sex as their second child - Again, all girls following boys. (Helen, Marina, and Davina.) Only the Harewoods had three boys - later four.

So it seems pretty open to me, although for some reason, I am voting for a boy.

I think brooches are very hard for anyone under 70. Sometimes a very very modern new piece works but I have some family brooches and they always look very matronly when added to any outfits, even if lovely on their own. I never wear them. Ali

LOVE LOVE LOVE her hair and hat!!! This is what I've been waiting for all week!! Navy is one of my favorite colors and the whole ensemble looks fantastic!! If only I could afford that coat... Can't wait to see her St. Patrick's day look! :)

This is absolutely my favorite look thus far during the Duchess' pregnancy. It's an understated yet polished choice that nicely compliments the other royals. Everything from the coat, dress, hat, jewelry, down to the hair oozes sophistication. I think this hat is a valuable addition to her collection and I can see her wearing it many more times to come. She is simply impeccable!

Thank you so much Charlotte for this incredible post! Catherine looks so utterly gorgeous! William looks handsome! I wish Kate would wear her hair like this more I just love it! I love her hat and coat dress and everything in between! Always a plus seeing beautiful Harry too. I can't believe we will see the little baby next month!

I think this is the best look for Kate during her pregnancy...classic, royal, sophisticated and chic. I think she looked great today and I also enjoyed seeing the men in uniform. Beautiful new jewelry...can't wait to hear more about the necklace and earrings. The last few days Kate has looked beautiful and her clothing and accessories just perfect. I must admit that I wished I could have been with her yesterday on the Downton set...what a great day and it looked like so much fun. Thanks again Charlotte for these great posts.

Thanks for another great post. You've been marvelous all week with up to the minute reports.

May I just say-HURRAH!!!!!!-finally the Duchess is firing on all cylinders. I've been waiting so long to see these things all come together at one appearance. She looks like a real princess today-regal, beautiful, elegant and appropriate.

Just to point out a few things that work- This outfit has appropriate skirt lengths. It's a great and dignified colour choice. She's wearing a hat with a decent circumference and shape (finally!!!!) which neither hides her lovely face nor perches on the top of her head like a little bird. Her hair is perfect-up and out of her face in a style where it won't blow all around and take on a life of its own. All her clothes fit-there's no attempt to deny that she's 7-8 months pregnant and is naturally bigger (even if she still hardly looks pregnant sometimes and is always a beautiful woman). Her accessories all match and none stand out by being oddly coloured or styled. They don't distract from the overall look.

Oh, I'm so excited, I feel like I need to go lie down before reading the post through again...

The only appearance that even comes close recently is the Easter Sunday service in Australia and (maybe) the Queen's Garden Party with the fawn coloured lace dress.

All this and St. Patrick's Day (always one of my favourite engagements) still to come!

Just beautiful! I love her chignon, she looks so nice with it up. Such a cute hat, too! Her new jewelry is just GORGEOUS. I thought everything went well together outfit wise. :) A very worthwhile service and it was lovely to see all the royals. The queen looked beautiful and I loved seeing the Duke helping her on the steps.

Love the hat. Did she ever actually wear the gloves? A very nice look. Gorgeous hair style. All the Poyals look good. Did not see a full shot of the Princes Royal. Wondering if the new jewelry is another stone other than sapphire, it looks like a paler blue than a sapphire. Ali

I noticed in some pictures in other publications, she is touching her hat. Are they on a headband and it could have been pinching her> Indoors there was no wind, so im assuming it wasn't being blown off. Just curious, ive never seen her do that with a hat.

Yes, Kate! Yes, yes, yes!!! This is how to do regal, stylish, sophisticated, and elegant. I love everything about this look. Normally I think Camilla looks great at these functions but I was a bit disappointed today. Her overall look is too wintery with furry collar and hat, and what looks to be boots. The Queen is wonderful as usual.

The blue on blue on blue is too much blue for me. It's all too matchy-matchy. Perhaps if the dress underneath had been a slightly different shade, or the jewelry had not also been blue. Her hair does look very nice in the chignon.

I must say that all of the royals hit it out of the park today! I can't think of anything that could be improved. Kate's hair was my very favorite thing. Just lovely and very flattering. I almost squealed with delight when I saw that the queen was sitting in the same place I did when visiting St. Paul's two years ago! The queen and Philip are truly amazing and I always hold my breath when they walk down a long flight of steps. It was so dear of the prince to offer his hand. Thank you Charlotte for posting this in such a speedy manner. I so enjoyed all of the wonderful photos!

Elegant, regal, perfect. Right to the top of her best maternity looks. Hope to see more of the chignon. I salute all our allies who served in this conflict and wish comfort and grace to families of the fallen.

Love the photos of the family together and the pic of the queen and Prince Philip is the best of the day, in my opinion. I think that sums up their lives together. I am not a fan of this coat on Kate. Charlotte, you've given us a lot of photos and from every angle, the coat makes Kate look short and dumpy. I don't know whether the skirt of the coat is just sewn so wide and big but it makes her look huge and short. Really not doing her any favors. Also not a fan of the tailoring up top, in the photos it seems like the fastener is really straining. A-line skirts, in general, don't do a ton of favors unless they're cut much closer to the body. They add volume from the waist to the knees, areas that, unless you're a Fashion Week model, tend to be larger on most women. In Kate's case, the volume gets added right under the bust, flaring out over her belly and puffing the wide skirt out even more. And the hat is not a hit with me. Too big and too fussy and, obviously, clumsy, as evidenced by how much she was fiddling with it. The service was moving and a nice way to honor the 453 British forces killed in Afghanistan. I know this has been mentioned a couple of times but Kate's maternity style is really hit or miss. It seems like she's not quite sure how to dress her new body and her new curves.

Beautiful look. Kate is extremely mobile on those heels for a couple of days in a row. Im just over 7 months pregnant and there is no way that I would be able to stand and bend down the way she does. Those steps at St Paul's would be too much for me. She looked so beautiful. One of her best preggie looks so far for me.

Hee hee:) When pregnant it all depends on how the baby is positioned. I had no issue with heels or a variety of clothes during all my pregnancies, but believe me you do have an extra 10 pounds all in front towards the end which depending on ones build can make heels just fine or not OK. I could wear heals and short dresses all the way through all my pregnancies. But I can well understand those whose child is positioned such that flats are the best choice.:) Ali

I like reading both your posts as it gives insight into how the Duchess is able to navigate stairs, carry a purse, flowers and talk when so much is happening with the baby kicking and the extra weigh etc. Thanks ladies for sharing. By the way, this is one of the reasons why I like this blog because one can learn so much from the intelligent dialogue that is so much apart of the opinion, exchanges etc and of course the unbelievably professional reporting of Charlotte.

Anon19:03 Congrats are in order and all the best as you await your bundle of joy! Let us know the name, at least when he or she arrives!

I think ability to manage in heels depends how often you wear them. I use to be able to run in them and even jump in them when I wore them everyday - no more!

Steps are always tricky - I remember watching Diana in a gorgeous white and gold gown go down steps in heels and a full skirt and thinking how effortless she made and later learnt she had been very worried about those steps. A royal hazzard.

Ok we see Prince Phillp helping the Queen down the stairs. So why can't William assist his very pregnant wife up and down those stairs? We also see Shopie & Edward arm & arm but again we do not see William & Kate?William for god sake take your wife's arm, hand or something as help her. O ya there is once he has his hand on her back for 2 seconds. I guess he is affraid to touch her. Thye have held hands at Christmas but why not now????

There are pictures of them walking down the steps and Prince William has his arm extended behind her. Almost as though he's seeing if she needs assistance but then she moves down the steps in front of him so she's obviously managing ok. I do wish the British Royals weren't so prudish though, showing affection only wins people over!

Charlotte, there is a photo on another blog of kate walking down the stairs where the wind lifts up her coat to mid-thigh. It's quite clear she's not wearing a skirt or dress with skirt under the coat. Luckily, the shot isn't as high as the other shots where the wind got the better of her, but it's quite clear there are no skirts under the coat. She's wearing a blue top, and the coat as a dress. Acquitaine

There is a photo in one of the Daily Mail articles from today showing a side view of Kate walking down the steps of St. Paul's as the wind is blowing the skirt of her coat upward. In that shot, a short, slim-fitting dark skirt is visible.

She does have a skirt but that D.M. picture certainly made it look like she didn't. Can see why there was confusion - the skirt must have flown up as well as the coat because in the other photos, it doesn't look that short. Would weights have helped - I don't know but it's an idea.

Yes quite a nice plain look today with hair tied up out of the way and an appropriate hem. The new jewels are nice hope we find out about them - maybe a wedding gift. The hat is nice, but I do wonder is the coat actually maternity wear - the fastening looks very strained. Sadly the shoes need throwing out the suede looks awfully battered now. The Queen looked great and the photo of her holding Prince Philip's hand is adorable. As always another excellent post Charlotte!

I absolutely loved everything about today's look, especially the new jewels! I think this outfit ranks right up there with Kate's best ever. She looks great. So nice to see all of her and William's little interactions, too.

Love the whole outfit, but especially that chignon! In the close-up of her necklace, it looks like some loose threads are on the coat collar area, as if her ring had caught and pull threads out. Unfortunate, whatever it is. She looks amazing.

Everybody looked amazing, I thought. The Queen does look tired and her ankles maybe a little more swollen than usual. Perhaps she has a little heart problem by this time, and if so, may she feel better soon. The photo of Prince Philip helping her is sweet but tinged with just a little sadness that she should need it. (Yes, lots of speculation. It's what I do best.)

She knocked it out of the park today. That's quite a trick, to dress in a subdued manner, as befitting the occasion, yet still look absolutely stylish & sophisticated, all while 8 months pregnant! Beautiful hair style. I wish she would do this more often.The Queen did look tired, but beautifully dressed as always. It is amazing she is getting up and down those steps under her own power at age 89. I only hope I can live as long, and with as much grace.

What I find interesting is that Kate got so much flak for wearing a bright pink coat to a memorial exhibit, yet the Queen has got none for wearing a bright coat to a memorial service in a place of actual worship.

I think there would have been a lot of comments had the queen wore "look at me!!!" screaming pink as Kate did at the 9-11 museum. Blue is a quieter colour in all shades and I thought at the time Kate had a nice light blue coat that would have caused little comment.

And I have seen comments on the queen clothes. It's not a question of hate - Kate dressed in a provocative way at the 9-11 - in a way she must have known would cause disagreement as to her taste.

A very moving occassion - thinking of all the men and women who served and all those who were lost and believe it has truly helped prevent terrorist acts in the west. So pleased to see the troops honoured.

Kate's look was very appropriate and for the first time in some time, striking-looking as well - more like the Kate of the first two years. There were technical clitches - the coat wasn't really designed for that late a pregnancy and pulled, the hat was troublesome and there was a wind issue with two much leg visable on the Daily Mail site - not sure how that happened because she was wearing a close-fitting skirt but the wind and Kate's leg always seem to meet. But the overall impression was great - and I loved her hair style - so elegant.

The queen was wonderful as always - Sophie also looked very nice - and Camilla was okay - a bit theatrical and don't like those hats made out of small dead animals. After the earlier occassion which seemed about immediate family - this was a more extended family event - with all present - nice to see. That photo of Charles and Camilla with Kate and Harry show an intriguing contrast of expressions - especially Harry's.

I agree: a better outfit than last times. But nevertheless: it is always the same style: a mixture between a dress and a coat - for years. I am bored. She is a young and beautiful woman! She should change her style more often.

Perfect. One of the all–time best HRH ensembles, in my opinion. Regal, thoroughly British. Top to bottom–outfit, color, hair and an extraordinarily elegant and beautiful hat. I only wish Britain/UK did not have to commemorate all these Afghanistan war deaths (against the heavy, somber WWI centennial ceremonies that are still palpable, heavy, in the air). What would the UK/Europe be like today if the 80 million or so war casualties (military & civilian) of the 20th and 21st century had not perished. S

Tres Chic and so lovely beside her handsome prince in uniform. Loved everything about the day and as I have a weakness for men in uniform and the BRF men do it so well, I am a very happy person for having read this post and feasted on the photos. Awesome new jewels on the Duchess--I must also add that the pieces are "so her" as far as her attire when on royal duty! My heart melted when I saw the photo of the Duke assisting the Queen down the steps, as he is usually behind her.

Ahh I hate it when comments get lost in cyberspace. Let me try this again...

Yes Kate!! That is how you do it. She looked very sophisticated today. As did all the Royals. I think this is the first time I have seen how her hat is held on. Normally they are really well hidden and I am always curious to know how she keeps them atop her head. It is kind of fun seeing for once how Kate's hat was held on :)

Love love love her outfit today. Everything was flawless. She really looked amazing. Love the accessories. I am amazed and hope she keeps this up. Wow. Her Majesty did look a bit fragile hope she is back to her normal self soon. The Duke was charming as he helped her. Thank you so much Charlotte. You are the best

This is by far my favorite look for the Duchess. It was understated and beautiful. It caught just the right amount of attention while not overshadowing the occasion. The look from head to toe was just perfection - the jewelry was just stunning.

It was very touching to see the Queen & Duke touching. Many of us in the US are so overly affectionate that I find it odd that you rarely see the royals touching, holding hands, embracing - it's very odd to me and I find it to be very formal and standoffish. It's such a treat when we get those glimpses - Will & Kate holding hands at Christmas, embracing at the Olympics and now the Duke assisting the Queen.

The Duchess seems to be getting more and more comfortable in her role and it's been wonderful to see the changes in her from the early days pre-engagement to now. I can't wait to see what the future holds for her, William and their children.

The little prince or princess to be does seem to be making his/her presence felt. I love Tanzanite - wish it was in my budget - and I saw that pendent on the Collins site about a year ago - breathtaking.

I follow From Her Majesty's Jewel Vault and it showed that the queen had a very full week of engagements so little wonder she is starting to get tired. A lot of her engagements seem to involve standing.

I hope Kate saves the coat for post maternity use - it would be even more striking.

Oh yes! The princess we glimpsed in New York is here today! What a perfect look to stand between two princes in dress uniforms! The navy blue, the beautiful lines of the coat, the elegant hat and hairstyle, and just enough jewelry to sparkle among all the military braid, leaving beautiful Garter ribbon blue for the Queen. I'm not sure about Camilla's outfit. She looked somewhat military, but with the boots, more as if she was visiting her regiment outdoors than attending a cathedral service. I thought Sophie looked slightly casual, but her military brooch is beautiful. Does anyone know whether the Queen has been ill? I thought she looked fine at the Commonwealth service but a little pale today, though smiling. Most of the pictures show smiles, yet there were a couple of quite sober looks when the family were together.

I'm definitely in the minority here, but I am not crazy about this look. I keep looking at the photos and wondering what I am missing. I know this was a somber occasion, but I find this ensemble dull, not elegant. It looks like something that would have been worn in the 1940s. I have never liked Kate's choice in hats. And overall, there's just too much navy for me. The navy coat worn with a dress and/or shoes in another color might have been nice, but this is navy overload, in my opinion.Betsey, NYC

I don't believe it is too much to wear a matching necklace and earrings. She probably received this as a "suite" of jewels.Diana wore her emeralds and saphires as a suite many times. Aquamarines too, on Diana..watch, ring, earrings , and bracelet. Maybe in a stylists world it;s too much,, but not on a Duchess.

Exactly, Milo. Huge difference between a stylist's perspective and royal jewelry. Had she worn the earrings without the necklace, or vice versa, it would have been just a nice necklace or pair of earrings. This has a different significance to it.

In looking back at the coat, do you think she had it restyled for her? The button closure, at least to me, is at a very different spot than the original. Plus the hem is pretty even. It does look like the "same" coat but maybe restyled? Or maybe made bespoke in the style of? The button is popping but frankly at this stage of a pregnancy even a few days of tailoring will be off. Thanks you Charlotte for the jewelry update. Ali

If you zoom in on Charlotte's close up photo of the necklace you can see where she probably did have the button moved. Unless it's a snag in the fabric or glare of the photo... and I noticed in another photo on Getty you can see the button is pulling petty dramatically as well as looks like Kate's belly button is popping out

In one of the photos she has a pin on in the place on the neckline however in the photo you are referring to the pin is not there. i hope it was not lost. I think this was one of her best looks this pregnancy!

This is one of my favorite looks on Kate! She is gorgeous! So very elegant and classy; very regal, very royal, very appropriate for the occasion. Absolutely beautiful! LOVE the hat and hairstyle, LOVE the coat, and LOVE the jewelry! Tanzanite is one of my favorite stones and the pieces Kate wore were exquisite.

I am wondering if Kate is due sooner in April rather than later..... She seems to be carrying this baby all out front and larger than she was with Prince George. I am absolutely NOT saying anything regarding weight or health. There's no need and she looks very happy and healthy, but just thinking out loud. Her growing belly was showing beautifully from the cut of the coat, but it was pulled across the front. Maybe the prince/princess will be an Easter baby...or right after! She still looked amazing and I do hope she recycles this piece. He/she looked to be giving Kate a kick in the last picture. :)

I do hope the Queen is just tired from a busy schedule and not any health related issues. She is so beautiful and I loved the picture with Prince Phillip taking her hand down the stairs. Over 67 years of marriage and life beautifully summed up in that shot. Praying HM will have a relaxing weekend and rest up.

Thank you for such a lovely post Charlotte! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Apparently the media were gently pointed by the palace to late April - there have been a few articles pointing toward 4/27 or 4/29 as the due date. I don't think she'd be doing 3/17 or 3/18 engagements if she was due in early April. But who knows!!

I thought Kate looked lovely and very much a Duchess at this event. Just prior to her becoming pregnant when she attended events in Belgium and France with William commemorating WW1 and D.Day landings I was struck on how well she conducted her herself and how much she had matured as a member of the Royal Family and this was shown even more at this event. It was lovely to see the interaction between her and William although like others have mentioned it would have been nice if he had held her hand when descending the steps from St. Paul's. I was surprised she did not attend the reception with William for the families who had lost men in the conflict both Sophie and Camilla were there at receptions with their husbands she rarely attends a reception with William I wonder why?This Sunday is Mothers' Day I hope Prince George gives her a nice present and William makes sure she has a special day. It will be interesting to see what she wears for St. Patrick's day I hope she doesn't get a heel caught in grating as she did a couple of years ago!

If you live in the United States, there will be a special interview with Prince Charles talking about his impending visit to America and his life in general. It will be shown tonight (Saturday) on CNN at 7:30 pm (Eastern time zone). Just saw a preview and it looks interesting.

I watched it and it was mostly about Camilla. Seemed to be a PR piece prior to them coming to the Sates. I don't remember Prince Charles ever speaking so glowingly about Diana. Prince Charles really lays it on thick about how great Camilla is.

It's unseemly laying it on so thick -and completely unproductive and insulting to the memory of his son's mother who he treats as if she never existed. The truth is he knows that Camilla is widely detested - her poll numbers have hardly budged - so he can't help but flaunt his feelings for her.

Wondering if anyone knows why Sophie was on the left instead of the right. I thought non-royals/married into the fam walk on one side (Camilla, Catherine. Mr. Laurence). If you look at the photo of them all it would seem that way.

The royal history wonk in me is wondering. lol

Also, regarding William helping her & the fact that they don't show PDA: these events are most royal outing are in fact considered "Work" & in the same way a married couple who work together at a bank or college or hospital would not show PDA b'c it would not be professional, neither do the royals.

I agree that she is likely due in early April. And as always, I thought she looked fab! xo

Regarding PDA... when they do engagements, William is often seen with his hand on her back in a supportive manner and the chemistry is obvious when they look at other. And when they are off duty, we *have* seen some sweet examples of PDA. I think they behave appropriately; no one wants to see a future king and queen hanging all over each other for public consumption like a couple of attention seeking reality stars.

Holding hands is not exactly 'hanging all over each other'. It is appropriate PDA and sadly something they hardly ever do. This is something common with other Royals in other countries. But the BRF is a bit stuffy when it comes to this. I shouldn't say all the BRF because Sophie shows PDA and it is really nice to see.

Hello Charlotte,I just checked the Baby Cambridge Fundraiser for East Anglia Children Hospice and found that while they are not actively fundraising the page is open for anyone who wants to donate for royal baby #2. I noticed that someone donated $1000 in November 2014. Do your blog readers know that the page is open or did I miss the announcement of this?Thanks Charlotte.

Yes it is still open and it was a wonderful surprise to see that very generous donation back in November. EACH are fundraising for a new hospice and every penny makes a difference. I will post a link to the page when the baby arrives for anyone who wishes to donate. Thank you Rose :0

A few comments. Due date...April 222nd...hee hee. No idea but I think she is due after the 15th but by the 22nd. The shoes on the model for the coat are fantastic. I would wear them, but frankly the models wearing them make the shoes look less than "great", crooked feet, odd angles of feet and legs, bad advertising shot. I have mixed feelings on the jewelry, the stone is great, I am not that thrilled with the styling of the jewels, but I also know how different stuff in person presents as opposed to photos, so willing to admit that the design may be great in person. I thought Sophie looked fantastic, I found her dress just beyond reproach. Still would love to see a shot including Princess Ann at the pew. Ali

I love Kate's style. I don't know why, but the coat and hat in the above pictures made me think of the 1940's and that I was looking at royalty from that era. Kate looks absolutely lovely no matter what era, though.

I'm surprised at everyone's enthusiasm for this outfit. Yes, the coat is nicely cut and her hair looks nice, but the ensemble is so...skull-numbingly boring! An A-line coat dress with matching heels and a fascinator is not a "new look" for Kate. She wears this kind of thing all the time. And EVERYTHING is blue. Couldn't she have added a contrasting clutch and shoes, or some more interesting earrings, or some bolder lipstick? No. Every single thing she is wearing is the same blah shade of blue. I'll be the one rogue commenter that thinks this outfit is not her best, not even close. I mean it's not horrible, but I'd toss these pics in the "boring" folder.

The coat looked very odd with just what looked like a pin holding it closed. Not elegant. Also a bit of another color, a pretty scarf would have brightened things up abit, even tho it was a solemn occassion. But everything else was great., esp. the jewelry.

I think this outfit was just more polished and princess-like than most of the clothes she has worn in recent time. And navy is an excellent colour on her. The outfits of her first year through the Asian trip were her best with an occasional exception and this outfit seems to hark back to those time - plus the wonderful new pendant.

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